To DVC, or not to DVC, that is the question...of today

[Laura.bora]

We are seriously considering DVC, but have some questions. I figure that we need about 200 points to vacation for two weeks in a one bedroom villa at WL in early to mid September. Cool. Now, is my membership cost based on my points, or is it a flat rate for joining. Also, for those who have financed, what rate do they charge and what incentives are offered, generally?

 

[dianeschlicht]

You purchase the number of points you think you need at the resort you wish to have as your home resort. For example, if you think you need 200 points at VWL, then you either need to look for a resale of that amount or get on Disney's waiting list for points at VWL, since it is a "sold out" resort. Your points area timeshare real estate transaction, so it is purchased that way. The price when buying from Disney is per point, so the number of points you buy determins the price.

If you want to purchase one of the new resorts (AKV or BLT), you must purchase a minimum of 160 points to start with. Most research how many points they are likely to need by reading point charts etc, and plan from there. Be aware that the "addon-itis" but can hit too, and you may find yourself adding points at a later date.

 

[CarolMN]

The price is per point, so as Diane posted, it is based on the number you decide to purchase. The flat rate you see is usually the amount for Disney's minimum purchase for new members. You also need to pay closing costs on top of that and there are maintenance fees (aka annual dues) to pay every year. Those vary by resort purchased and lately, have been going up each year.

 

[Dean]

We are seriously considering DVC, but have some questions. I figure that we need about 200 points to vacation for two weeks in a one bedroom villa at WL in early to mid September. Cool. Now, is my membership cost based on my points, or is it a flat rate for joining. Also, for those who have financed, what rate do they charge and what incentives are offered, generally?

200 VWL points will cost you in the range of $16-7K resale and $19K retail with yearly dues in the $1000 a year range. The resort ends in 2042, some of the newer resorts (SSR, AKV, BLT) end around 15 years later. If you know you want VWL most trips I would likely still buy there however, Sept is a time when you should be able to get into any resort at the 7 month window with points from anywhere.

I'm not sure the current financing, it's usually in the 10% range. Incentives vary but are rarely make or break, IMO. Often it's a discount if you purchase a certain min of points, at times they've also offered a gift card. Usually they prorate the dues which can be as much as another $2-3 per point discount in some cases. Personally I would not encourage anyone to finance a luxury choice but ultimately that is your decision to make.

Keep investigating and make the best decision for you and your family. Let us know if we can help.

 

[bobbiwoz]

Incentives are not usually given for sold our resorts. If you bought directly from Disney, you would pay the full price they are asking, which is close to $100 per point. If you want VWL, I would go the resale route for a contract in the 200 point range.

Bobbi

 

[backyardponder]

The OP never mentions if the 2 week vacation is every year, or how frequent. With DVC, you can go up to once every three years (with banking and borrowing). If you are looking to go every other year, you only need a contract with 100 points. If you are going every three years, then you only need 67 points. Of course, going every year, you'd need 200 points!

 

[gallam5]

Hey there - we are going to buy in to dvc - go to the dvc website and order a package - its awesome.
And then go to the Time Share Store and register there also - they will send you a package also.
Between that and this discussion forum - we have solidified a solution that will work for our family - I think that scanning the info on the boards is the best way to get informed.
And GET THOSE PACKAGES! Its awesome. Esp for number crucnching and referring to!
GOOD LUCK!